SNP Calls for Stronger Security Cooperation After Russian Submarine Activity

The SNP is urging closer security cooperation with European allies after reports of Russian submarine activity near undersea infrastructure in the North Atlantic. Stephen Gethins said the incident shows the need for greater investment in air and maritime security in Scotland and broader alignment with European partners.

China’s yuan gains support as Middle East war eases and investors bet on further strength

Investors and economists are raising bets that China’s yuan will strengthen, helped by a short-term lift from the Middle East war and broader trends that may be increasing its appeal as a haven. Funds have been buying the currency through options, with lower oil prices and a stronger risk appetite after the ceasefire announcement adding support. Some traders are also using the yuan more in trade, and one economist said Beijing appears willing to let the currency rise further.

Meta Unveils New AI Model as It Tries to Catch Rivals

Meta has unveiled its first new AI model from a high-profile team of engineers it hired at great expense as it tries to close the gap with Google, OpenAI, and Anthropic. The rollout lifted Meta shares 7%, but analysts questioned whether the company has already fallen too far behind. Meta still has major advantages, including its huge user base across Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, plus a long track record in digital advertising.

Husband Arrested in Bahamas in Michigan Woman’s Disappearance

Brian Hooker has been arrested in the Bahamas in connection with the disappearance of his wife, a Michigan woman. His lawyer says he denies any wrongdoing.

Poll Shows Thomas Massie Leading GOP Primary by Double Digits

A new independent poll in Kentucky’s 4th Congressional District shows Rep. Thomas Massie ahead of Trump-endorsed candidate Ed Gallrein. The survey of 437 likely Republican voters found Massie at 47.4% and Gallrein at 36.8%.

Starmer Faces Pressure to Project Strength on Gulf Tour Amid Middle East Tensions

Sir Keir Starmer is on a Gulf tour as Labour tries to cast him as a global statesman ahead of May’s elections. He is seeking to reassure allies and keep shipping through the Strait of Hormuz open, while opposition figures accuse him of posturing and question Britain’s defence planning. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has warned that Israeli strikes in Lebanon are destabilising the region, and Defence Secretary John Healey said the UK should not deploy all its military assets to the Middle East.

Jim Whittaker, the First American to Summit Everest, Dies at 97

Jim Whittaker, the first American to climb Mount Everest, has died at 97. He shared world-class climbing status with his identical twin, Lou, who led the first American expedition to scale Everest’s north face.

17-Year-Old Mika Stojsavljevic to Make Great Britain Debut in Billie Jean King Cup Qualifier

Seventeen-year-old Mika Stojsavljevic is set to make her Billie Jean King Cup debut for Great Britain this week in a qualifying tie against Australia.

Plaid Cymru manifesto promises child payments and 100 new GPs

Rhun ap Iorwerth says a Plaid Cymru government would cut waiting times, help with childcare costs, and boost the economy, with plans that include payments for children and hiring 100 new GPs.

High-Quality Plant-Based Diets Linked to Lower Dementia Risk, Study Finds

New research in Neurology tracked nearly 93,000 people for about 11 years and found that a higher-quality plant-based diet was linked to a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts and legumes appeared protective, while refined grains and added sugars were tied to higher risk. The study did not look specifically at vegetarian or vegan diets, and researchers noted the usual limitation of self-reported eating habits.

Petrol and Diesel Prices Rise Again Amid Ceasefire Concerns

Petrol and diesel prices have risen again, and motoring groups are warning drivers not to expect a significant fall in costs any time soon.